Our "Asana of the Month" is Adho Mukha Svanasana--Downward-Facing Dog. This pose is frequently used as a resting pose between asanas or as a symmetrical pose between asymmetrical standing poses. Of course there are many ways to explore the movement and comfort in the pose, but the following will give you a good, basic foundation:

Begin in extended arm child's pose. As you inhale come up onto your hands and knees; your hands will be slightly ahead of your shoulders. Curl your toes under and on an exhale straighten your legs and lift the pelvis up towards the sky. Send the weight of your body back into your legs, keep your neck long and fingers spread evenly as they press into the floor. The idea is to create length in the spine, so at first you may have to bend the knees in order to free the back of the legs and allow the spine to stretch. When you are comfortable, invite your heels to reach down, towards the earth, and straighten your legs without locking your knees. Take several nice full breaths, and when you are ready to release, bend your knees back towards the floor and rest in child's pose (Balasana).